If your cigar box has labels stickers or other materials on it, you can remove these using some nail polish remover or acetone. If you need to sand your box use a fine grade wet sand paper available from your hardware store.

Decorating your Box.

The possibilities for decorating your cigar box are some what endless. You can paint your box, you can decoupage your box you can leave it natural and give it a coat of clear varnish. You can glue beads on your box, you could cover it in fabric plus much more.

Once you have decorated your box spray it with some clear varnish for a protective durable coat. You can also use a oil based varnish such as shellac to give your box an aged effect as this varnish yellows over time.

Handle:Start by attaching your handle of choice you can use a drawer pull or a purpose bought purse handle ready to use most craft stores and online purse stores sell these handles.

You need to attach your handle on the outside of cigar box near the opening if you are using a drawer handle you may need to use smaller screws then those supplied with the handle. If you are using a purse handle then follow the instructions provided with that purpose bought handle.

Lining:

Use a velvet fabric or felt to line the inside of your box, make a pattern by placing your box onto the fabric and allowing a 1/4 inch edge then cutting the fabric out remembering to leave that 1/4 inch allowance. Then fold a 1/4 inch hem all the way around the fabric, this will create a better finish once it is glued in. Use an iron to flatten the hem down and then either stitch the hem closed or use a small amount of glue.

Then using glue gun or craft glue fold and secure the fabric into the bottom inside of the cigar box.

The Clasp:

If your cigar box does not have a clasp on it, then you can use velcro tabs and some fabric to keep your box closed or purchase a clasp from your local craft store.